Search
Close this search box.

Body of missing kayaker recovered in Okaloosa County

Wessam Bassam Shaer, 32, went missing Saturday after a witness observed his kayak capsize near Lincoln Park in Valparaiso.
Contributed photo

The body of a kayaker who went missing in Boggy Bayou on Saturday was recovered Sunday morning, the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office reported.

  • Wessam Bassam Shaer, 32, was recovered around 9:15 a.m. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is leading the investigation.

Shaer went missing Saturday near Lincoln Park in Valparaiso after a witness observed his kayak capsize, according to an Aqua Alert issued by the Sheriff’s Office. His kayak was located and removed from the water, but Shaer was not with it. His green jacket and beanie were also recovered.

“We are terribly saddened to report Wessam’s body was recovered this morning,” the Sheriff’s Office stated. “Our sincere prayers go out to his family and friends in this tragedy.”

PROMOTION

Join the conversation...

Continue reading 👇

Community Comments

Michael L. Cobb commented on WordroW: February 13, 2026
“1 MIN 41 SEC”
Respond
“To me this is what being a good citizen is about. I commend the Moose Lodge organization for its charitable efforts and hope other organizations will emulate them. Thank you.”
Respond
“God be with you Mia! You’ve got this. TW, Crestview”
Respond
“Eglin is over reaching with directives and limiting access to Eglin (actually taxpayer) property. I fully agree with E Robbeloth (see his comment). I witness unbelievable reckless driving on base...”
Respond
“The Moose charities do so much for children. Thanks to all the members for continuing to support them.”
Respond
“Excellent article! I’m no professional, but I love taking pictures of the sunsets here. As I read through the suggested spots, my agreement grew. Yes that’s a good place…oh hey...”
Respond
Michael L. Cobb commented on WordroW: February 12, 2026
“2 min 38 sec”
Respond
“Only phones without cameras on-base .”
Respond
“How are your protections being taken away? When you are on a Military base You are protected! My Dad - CMSGT Fought in the Korean War a gave 23yrs at...”
Respond
“How are Your Protections being taken away?”
Respond

GET OUR FREE LOCAL NEWSLETTER

Get the weekday email that actually makes reading local news enjoyable again.